Matt Wright, the star of the television series Outback Wrangler and Wild Croc Territory, was released from prison on May 11, 2026, after serving his five-month non-parole period. Wright was convicted in 2025 on two counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice in relation to a helicopter crash that killed his friend and fellow crocodile wrangler Chris 'Willow' Wilson in 2022.
According to verified reports, Wright missed the birth of his baby boy while incarcerated. His wife, Kaia Wright, gave birth to their son during his time in prison. Wright has expressed regret over missing this milestone but is now focused on rebuilding his life and family relationships.
The conviction stemmed from Wright's actions following the fatal helicopter crash near the Cobourg Peninsula in the Northern Territory. He was found to have attempted to influence witnesses and conceal evidence related to the crash investigation. The court sentenced him to a total of 12 months in prison with a five-month non-parole period.
Wright's legal team has indicated that he will not appeal the conviction. The case has drawn significant media attention due to Wright's celebrity status as a wildlife expert and television personality. His release marks the end of a legal saga that began with the tragic accident in February 2022.
